After nearly 20 years of exceptional leadership, Wendy Kallergis, esteemed President and CEO of the Greater Miami and the Beaches Hotel Association (GMBHA), has announced her retirement, set for December 31, 2024. Known for her extensive contributions to Miami’s hospitality sector, Kallergis leaves behind a legacy of growth and unity within the industry. During the transition period, Curtis Crider, former Chairman of Jungle Island Resort, will serve as Co-CEO to support a smooth change in leadership as the GMBHA searches for her successor.

Amir Blattner, Chair of the GMBHA and General Manager of the Hyatt Regency Miami, commented, “Wendy’s impact on our association and the hospitality industry at large is profound. Her commitment has transformed our organization, and she will be missed by everyone she has touched.”

A Pioneering Career in Hospitality

David Whitaker, President and CEO of the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau (GMCVB), acknowledged Kallergis’ role in establishing GMBHA as Miami-Dade’s largest hotel association, stating, “Wendy’s dedication has brought significant advances to our tourism industry. Her work uniting hospitality professionals, business leaders, and government officials at all levels is an inspiration, and her legacy will resonate for years to come.”

Kallergis led several important initiatives during her time as CEO, including the creation of the Sustainable Hospitality Council, which encourages environmentally responsible practices among hotels. Her leadership also proved critical during the COVID-19 pandemic and Zika virus outbreak, offering guidance and support when the industry most needed it.

Champion of Major Events and Cultural Tourism

Kallergis’ work helped shape Miami into an attractive destination for world-class events and cultural tourism. Her partnerships with the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau drew high-profile events like the Super Bowl and 2020 Democratic National Convention to Miami, boosting the city’s reputation as a global cultural hub. Her commitment to workforce development was recognized when she was named a White House Champion of Change for promoting citizenship in the workplace.

With roots in the culinary arts and a strong background in hospitality, Kallergis honed her skills in renowned establishments, including the Miami City Club, the Biltmore Hotel, and Delano South Beach. Her extensive experience in catering, events, and hotel management set a foundation for her visionary work in Miami’s hospitality landscape.

Legacy of Service and Recognition

In addition to her role with GMBHA, Kallergis has been an influential leader in other key organizations, serving on several advisory boards:

• Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau
• FIU Chaplin School of Hospitality Management
• Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce
• Academy of Hospitality and Tourism
• Miami-Dade College Culinary Institute

Kallergis’ remarkable career has earned her numerous accolades, including the South Florida Business Journal’s Influential Business Women Award, the American Hotel & Lodging Association’s Women in Lodging Connect Leader of the Year Award, and HSMAI South Florida’s 2020 Hospitality Legend of the Year.

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